Pythonidae
Spotted Python
Antaresia maculosa
A patterned python with ragged-edged blotches and heat pits on the lower labial scales. This species-level record covers the east-coast nominotypical form and the Cape York subspecies Antaresia maculosa peninsularis.
Non-venomous
Identification and appearance
A python with ragged-edged, irregular dorsal blotches and heat pits on the lower labial scales; rostral heat pits are absent. The species-level record covers both the east-coast form and the Cape York subspecies.
Typical length
AROD lists a species average of about 75 cm; the current diagnosis reports up to 1220 mm snout–vent length, which is not converted into a total-length maximum.
Key identification features
- Irregular blotches with ragged edges
- Pattern is often conspicuous
Where it is found
East coast of Queensland down to northern New South Wales.
Habitat
In Queensland, Spotted Pythons occupy habitats ranging from eucalypt woodland to rainforest.
Diet
Small mammals and reptiles. Also frogs, birds.
Reproduction
Oviparous.
Medical significance
The consulted sources do not identify medically significant venom, but a non-venomous snake can still bite. Do not handle it.
What to do if you encounter one
Keep well clear and leave a route towards cover. Do not chase, corner, handle or inspect it. If it is inside a building, keep people and pets away and contact a qualified local snake remover.
Similar-looking snakes
Children’s Pythons are a documented comparison; the older account contrasts their smoother-edged blotches with the Spotted Python’s irregular markings. The current Children’s Python concept also includes former Stimson’s populations. Young patterned pythons may be difficult to separate from a distant view.
Photo: Hugo Innes · CC BY 4.0 (Licence)
Pythonidae
Children’s Python
Antaresia childreni
A non-venomous python whose accepted species concept includes northern and inland Australian forms.
Open identification guide
Photo: Andrew Mercer (www.baldwhiteguy.co.nz) · CC BY-SA 4.0 (Licence)
Pythonidae
Carpet Python
Morelia spilota
A patterned python that can live in woodland, gardens and buildings as well as less disturbed habitats. Brown and cream blotches are common, but some forms have much darker bodies with pale spots. The diamond python is included within this variable species.
Open identification guideTaxonomy notes
This species includes Antaresia maculosa maculosa and the Cape York subspecies A. m. peninsularis. The name Southern Spotted Python refers more narrowly to the nominotypical form.
Sources checked
- Australian Reptile Online Database — Southern Spotted Python (2026-09-25)
- The Reptile Database — Antaresia maculosa (2026-09-25)
- Species account: Spotted Python (2026-09-26)
- Queensland Government — Snakes of Central Queensland (2026-09-26)
Still not sure?
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A profile is a guide, not a reason to approach or handle a snake.